Šavnik
,Šavnik is a small town located in the mountainous region of Montenegro, known for its stunning natural beauty and charming village atmosphere. The town is surrounded by lush forests and deep gorges, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and hikers. Šavnik is also home to traditional stone houses and a quaint town center, offering a glimpse into Montenegro's rural way of life.
Visitors can enjoy peaceful walks through the countryside, explore local artisan shops, and immerse themselves in the laid-back lifestyle of this picturesque town.
- "Dobar dan" - Good day
- "Hvala" - Thank you
- "Molim" - Please
- "Kako si?" - How are you?
- "Izvini" - Excuse me
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $20 - $50
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $2
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $50
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $40
Day plans
Spend a day exploring around
Explore avnik's Natural Beauty
morning
:Start your morning with a refreshing hike in the stunning mountains surrounding Šavnik. Enjoy the peace of nature and capture breathtaking views.
afternoon
:In the afternoon, visit the charming village of Crkvice and explore its traditional architecture. Stop for a local lunch at a family-run restaurant.
evening
:Spend your evening relaxing by the riverside. Engage in some stargazing as the night sky lights up.
Adventure at Durmitor National Park
morning
:Kick off your morning with a drive to Durmitor National Park, known for its incredible landscapes. Go for a guided tour to see the famous Black Lake.
afternoon
:Explore various hiking trails and witness the local flora and fauna in the lush surroundings. Pack a picnic lunch for a nice spot by the lake.
evening
:Return to Šavnik in the evening and unwind over a hearty Montenegrin dinner. Try some locally made wine to complement your meal.
Highlights
Good
- Stunning natural beauty with mountains and rivers
- Rich cultural heritage and historical sites
- Peaceful and serene environment, ideal for relaxation
- Friendly local community and hospitality
- Opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking and fishing
Bad
- Limited access to modern amenities and services
- Infrequent public transportation options
- Poor internet connectivity in some areas
- Economic challenges with fewer job opportunities
- Harsh winters may deter some visitors or residents
Outdoor Activities
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Hiking in Durmitor National Park
Explore the breathtaking landscapes of Durmitor National Park, which offers a variety of trails suitable for all skill levels, featuring stunning views, glacial lakes, and diverse wildlife.
Canyoning in Nevidio Canyon
Experience the thrill of canyoning in Nevidio Canyon, one of the most beautiful canyons in Montenegro, known for its deep gorges, waterfalls, and crystal-clear waters.
Mountain Biking
Discover scenic mountain biking trails around Šavnik, suitable for both beginners and advanced riders, allowing you to enjoy the area's natural beauty and fresh air.
Rafting on the Tara River
Take an adrenaline-pumping rafting trip on the Tara River, famous for its stunning emerald waters and stunning canyon views, making it an unforgettable outdoor adventure.
Fishing in the Piva Lake
Enjoy a relaxing day of fishing in Piva Lake, which is rich in various fish species and set against a picturesque backdrop, perfect for anglers and nature lovers alike.
Exploring Local Villages
Visit traditional villages around Šavnik to immerse yourself in local culture, enjoy authentic cuisine, and experience the hospitality of Montenegro.
Wildlife Watching
Engage in wildlife watching in the surrounding areas, with opportunities to see various species such as deer, eagles, and other animals in their natural habitats.
Adventures
Uncover the best of Šavnik with these unforgettable adventures.
Attractions
Visit one of these nice places.
Durmitor National Park
Known for its stunning landscapes, this national park offers breathtaking views of mountains, glacial lakes, and deep canyons, making it a perfect spot for photography.
Black Lake (Crno Jezero)
Located in Durmitor National Park, this picturesque glacial lake is surrounded by dense pine forests and offers stunning reflections of the mountains, ideal for capturing stunning images.
Šavnik Viewpoint
A local viewpoint that provides panoramic views of the Šavnik valley and surrounding mountains, perfect for capturing sunsets or panoramic shots.
Tara River Canyon
One of the deepest canyons in Europe, the Tara River Canyon presents dramatic views and turquoise waters, making it a fantastic location for adventurous photography.
Bajo Sea
A beautiful mountain lake known for its serene environment and clear waters, ideal for tranquil nature photography and capturing reflections.
Kovačica Waterfall
A stunning natural waterfall located near Šavnik, offering a great opportunity for capturing the beauty of cascading water amidst lush greenery.
Local Villages
Exploring the traditional villages around Šavnik offers unique opportunities to photograph rural architecture, local life, and the stunning backdrop of Montenegro's countryside.
Cuisine
Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Kacamak
A beloved dish made from cornmeal, potato, and cheese, creating a creamy and indulgent texture. Look for it at traditional local restaurants like Konoba Kod Mira.
Must-Try!
Priganice
These delightful, donut-like pastries are often enjoyed with honey or jam. You can find them at bakeries and street food stalls throughout Šavnik.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Šavnik better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Šavnik Farmers' Market
Every Saturday, the town comes alive with vibrant market stalls offering a variety of fresh produce, local cheeses, meats, and homemade goods. It's an ideal spot to savor authentic flavors and engage with the community.
Street Food Delights
Exploring the streets of Šavnik presents opportunities to sample local street foods like burek (flaky pastry filled with meat or cheese) and grilled meats served with fresh bread. Seek out family-run food vendors for a truly authentic experience.
Weather
How To Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greetings
When meeting someone in Šavnik, a firm handshake and maintaining eye contact are customary. It is polite to greet with a friendly 'Dobar dan' (Good day) and to ask about the person's well-being.
Dress Code
In Šavnik, residents typically dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. It is advisable to wear conservative clothing that covers shoulders and knees, showing respect for local customs.
Hospitality
Montenegrins take great pride in hospitality. If you are invited to a local home, it is respectful to bring a small gift, such as sweets or a bottle of wine, as a token of appreciation for their kindness.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Šavnik with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping & Payment
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping
In Šavnik, Montenegro, tipping is generally appreciated but not obligatory. It is common to leave a small tip, typically rounding up the bill or adding about 5-10% for good service in restaurants and cafes. Tipping taxi drivers and hotel staff is also common, but the amounts may vary based on the level of service.
Payment
Payment in Šavnik can be made using cash, which is preferred in many small establishments. While larger businesses may accept credit and debit cards, cash remains the primary mode of payment, so having local currency (Euro) on hand is advisable. ATMs are available for withdrawing cash, but it's good to check for any fees associated with international cards.
Best Activities
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Šavnik.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring
Spring (March to May) is one of the best times to visit Šavnik, as the weather is mild and pleasant. The surrounding nature comes to life with blooming flowers and greenery, making it ideal for hiking and outdoor activities. Expect temperatures to range from 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F), with occasional rain.
Summer
Summer (June to August) in Šavnik can be warm, with temperatures reaching up to 30°C (86°F). This is the peak tourist season, offering plenty of sunshine and longer days. Visitors can enjoy swimming in nearby lakes and exploring the stunning mountainous landscapes. However, it can also get crowded, especially in popular areas.
Autumn
Autumn (September to November) is a beautiful time to visit Šavnik, with cooler temperatures and the stunning colors of fall foliage. Expect temperatures between 5°C and 20°C (41°F to 68°F). This season is less crowded than summer, making it peaceful for those who enjoy nature walks and photography.
Winter
Winter (December to February) in Šavnik can be cold, with temperatures often dropping below 0°C (32°F). This season is perfect for those interested in winter sports, as nearby mountains offer opportunities for skiing and snowboarding. Visitors can expect a beautiful winter landscape, but should prepare for potential road closures due to snow.
Nightlife
Hiking Spots Nearby
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Durmitor National Park
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Durmitor National Park features stunning landscapes, glacial lakes, and diverse flora and fauna. It offers numerous hiking trails with varying levels of difficulty.
Tara National Park
Known for its deep canyons and the Tara River, this national park also provides hiking opportunities with breathtaking views and a rich variety of wildlife.
Bobotov Kuk
The highest peak in Durmitor National Park, Bobotov Kuk offers challenging hikes with incredible panoramic views from the top, making it a favorite among experienced hikers.
Lazar canyon
A beautiful canyon with hiking paths along the river that offer both relaxing and adventurous experiences. Perfect for nature lovers and those seeking scenic views.
Prutaš
A popular hiking destination known for its rugged terrain and stunning landscapes. The trail leads to Prutaš peak, offering excellent views of the surrounding mountains.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Šavnik through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports Nearby
How to reach Šavnik by plane.
Podgorica Airport (TGD)
The main international airport in Montenegro, located approximately 90 km from Šavnik.
Tivat Airport (TIV)
An international airport located about 100 km from Šavnik, serving the coastal region of Montenegro.
Dubrovnik Airport (DBV)
An international airport in Croatia, approximately 125 km from Šavnik, often used by travelers heading to Montenegro.
Mostar International Airport (OMO)
Located about 135 km from Šavnik in Bosnia and Herzegovina, this airport serves international flights providing additional access for the region.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Montenegrins
The largest ethnic group in Šavnik, reflecting the broader demographic makeup of Montenegro.
Serbs
A significant minority group in Šavnik, contributing to the cultural and social landscape.
Bosniaks
A smaller community within the area, with historical ties to the region.
Croats
Another minority in Šavnik, representing a smaller proportion of the population.
Albanians
A minor demographic group in Šavnik, with historical presence in Montenegro.
Others
Includes various other ethnicities and groups that may reside in Šavnik.
The Soul of Šavnik
Discover the essence of Šavnik through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football
Football is one of the most popular sports in Šavnik, with local clubs participating in regional leagues and attracting a passionate fan base.
Basketball
Basketball is also widely played in Šavnik, with community teams and schools promoting the sport among the youth.
Volleyball
Volleyball has a strong following in Šavnik, with tournaments held regularly and clubs representing the town in various competitions.
Athletics
Athletics, including running and track events, is popular among residents, with various local events encouraging participation.
Handball
Handball is practiced in Şavnik, with local teams competing in regional leagues and fostering team spirit and sportsmanship.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian and Vegan Options
While traditional Montenegrin cuisine leans heavily on meats and dairy, many restaurants in Šavnik are accommodating to vegetarians and vegans, often offering dishes like fresh salads, grilled vegetables, and bean-based stews. It's advisable to communicate dietary requirements clearly, and chefs are usually happy to prepare customized meals.
Gluten-Free Choices
Locally sourced and naturally gluten-free ingredients, such as cornmeal and rice, are fundamental in the Montenegrin diet. As a result, gluten-free options can often be found at restaurants, with dishes like grilled meats, seafood, and vegetable-based dishes. Always inquire about ingredients and preparation methods to ensure suitability.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Šavnik with these cultural adventures.
